SUPPORTERS were out in force in Middlewich last week, as stage three of the Tour of Britain stormed through the town centre.

Riders, including Olympic medallists Sir Bradley Wiggins and Mark Cavendish as well as Middlewich’s own Kristian House, arrived from Nantwich along Nantwich Road, before heading along St Michael’s Way and down Booth Lane.

Thousands of spectators lined the route to welcome the 120 cyclists, including Wilmslow’s Ian Stannard who went on to win the stage at the Tatton Park finish line.

Cheshire East Council leader Rachel Bailey, who presented the winner with his award, said: “I am feeling euphoric about the event.

“I have seen the look on all of those faces of those people who either live in the borough or have visited because of the Tour of Britain.

“It has been such a successful leg of the race and the response of the community, of the council and of the riders has been amazing.

“We will now start working with the legacy of the Tour of Britain, and what that means in terms of benefit to the economy, to the wellbeing of our residents, and the benefit in community engagement.

“Our health partners are equally positive about what it means going forward, whether that be physical or mental wellbeing.”

The tour began in Glasgow on Sunday, September 4, concluding in London a week later with Steve Cummings winning the overall title.